The Federal Government on Thursday said the reconstruction of the Enugu–Onitsha federal highway would cost ₦350 billion.
Sen. David Umahi, the Minister of Works, made this announcement while inaugurating completed portions of the road.
He noted that President Bola Tinubu had shown unwavering commitment to completing the project.
READ ALSO: Orile-Agege LCDA disburses N96m to boost waste management
Umahi explained that the federal government reviewed the original ₦202 billion contract for the road, retaining part of it.
“The FG further carved a 72-kilometre stretch for reconstruction using reinforced concrete pavement. This section costs about ₦150 billion. It is being executed to higher durability standards similar to those used on the Lagos–Calabar coastal highway,” he said.
The minister added that the first 15 kilometres of the reinforced concrete section is about 97% complete.
“This section is currently being opened to traffic to ease movement during the Easter celebration. Another 18-kilometre stretch is under construction towards Anambra, while a separate 39-kilometre segment extending from the River Niger bridge axis is also ongoing,” he said.
He further stated that contractors handling the asphalt portions of the road have been directed to adopt the same concrete standard for the remaining 23 kilometres.
“Concrete is preferred due to its longer lifespan and minimal maintenance requirements. Asphalt deteriorates over time, but concrete can last 50 to 100 years with little or no maintenance. Fifty per cent of the entire highway will be constructed on reinforced concrete, significantly improving durability and reducing long-term costs,” he said.
Umahi commended Tinubu for his commitment to transforming the Southeast’s infrastructure, citing other ongoing road projects in the region.
Supervisors of various sections of the highway praised the federal government for its support and pledged to complete the project by 2026.
